Childhood recurrent idiopathic paralysis of the lateral rectus

Five case histories are discussed to emphasize the features of childhood recurrent idiopathic paralysis of the lateral rectus (CRIPLR). These features include (1) at least one recurrence of the paralysis, (2) a paralysis that may be so brief as to be overlooked or ignored; (3) lack of serious sequelae similar to lateral rectus dysfunction following viral illness; (4) left-sided involvement; and (5) the idiopathic nature of CRIPLR reflecting our inability to discover a cause.